Domestic flyers also subject to new luggage search rule

Travellers advised, take photo of packed bags before closing them

PUBLISHED : 25 Oct 2026 at 15:45

Travellers on all domestic flights are also liable to have their luggage searched under new regulations, not  just flyers leaving the kingdom, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) warned on Sunday.

The new baggage search rule that came into force on Oct 16 applies to both domestic and international flights commencing in Thailand, the CAAT said.

It does not apply to inbound passengers because the inspection is the responsibility of the airport where travellers board the aircraft, it said.

The clarification came after a passenger on a domestic flight complained that a piece of luggage had been opened without them being present.

The CAAT confirmed the incident, saying airport authorities had found an electronic device powered by a battery in the bag. They decided to cut off a zipper to make a search because the bag did not have a TSA-approved lock - special locks that allow airport security to open, inspect and relock a checked bag  using a universal master key without breaking the lock.

An inspection notice was placed inside the bag, the statement said.

The CAAT did not offer details of the case, including when and where the inspection took place.

The new inspection rule authorises airport officials to open any luggage without the presence of the owner if they suspect it may contain goods banned in checked baggage, during the scanning process before it is loaded onto the aircraft.

The CAAT suggested passengers take a photo of their packed luggage, before and after closing it, and keep it as evidence in case some items are lost or damaged during an inspection.